Nike refuses to listen to Barcelona’s financial demands; club consider alternatives

Barcelona’s rift with Nike has been a recurring talking point this year, with the two entities failing to find common ground as of late.

The primary cause of disagreement stems from the Catalan giants’ dissatisfaction with the terms of their agreement with Nike.

Laporta attested to the fact that Nike pays Barcelona less than what the market will bear. The club is not content with the US sporting goods giants’ services either.

Eager to raise the terms of the agreement

As per MARCA, Joan Laporta is requesting that Nike prolong the contract for a sum higher than what Barça is currently charging and, most importantly, that the club now receive a bonus for doing so.

However, Nike are not eager to give in to the Blaugranes‘ demands so easily. Indeed, the issue Laporta is facing is Nike’s refusal to budge on the club’s financial demands.

Barcelona currently receives €85 million per season from the brand in addition to €20 million in add-ons, which is not considered up to par by the Barcelona board.

Alternatives on the table

Barcelona’s and Nike’s contracts do not expire until 2028. Nevertheless, Barcelona does possess several tools at its disposal should they choose to end the agreement before that time.

The rumour mill has given rise to a few interesting possibilities, which include Barça creating their own brand to produce kits rather than entering into a contract with a third-party company.

Going down that route would potentially allow Barcelona to generate more revenue. A reported deal with German manufacturer, Hummel, is already on the table.

Time will tell how the saga develops, but in case Barcelona sever ties with Nike, they would have other opportunities to evaluate.